How can I create a soft, fluid filled pod that can rupture?
I would say make a hollow softbody (I guess with the boolean), make it breakable (how do I make an object bend or break if hit with sufficient force? - see the bottom of the first answer), then add fluid inside (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gM8yEMFMjg). I'm not that experienced with those, but I'll do some experimenting and get back to you if i get anything useful.